Punch and Judy

a puppet-show at one time popular, and exhibited frequently in the streets. The origin of the story of Punch and Judy is somewhat uncertain. An English ballad of the eighteenth century recounts the adventures of the couple, but certain authorities ascribe the story to Fiorillo, an Italian comedian of the seventeenth century. The tale runs that Punch in a fit of jealousy strangles his infant child. Judy attacks Punch to be avenged. Then Punch seizes a bludgeon and beats Judy to death, throwing the two bodies into the street. An officer finds the bodies, and Punch is shut up in prison. He makes his escape, however, and goes through various adventures, always happy and always getting the best of everyone. He drives the doctor who visits him when he is ill out of the house, has a set-to with Death, whom he beats, and finally outwits the Devil. "As pleased as Punch," has come to be a common expression.